Engine Turnover without Kickstarter

A Honda with ignition problems, a BMW without a kickstarter, and Triumph mechanic recommendations.

By Keith Fellenstein
Updated on June 8, 2022
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by Keith Fellenstein

Honda ignition problems

Q: I read the Q&A on the MC website about Honda CX500 ignition problems. I am rebuilding a 1980 Honda CX500C, with the 3-piece stator you discuss. My problem is the bike starts beautifully when cold, and runs well even when fully warmed up to running temperature, but if you switch the engine off it refuses to start again until cooled down. Checking for a spark when cold, it shows big fat sparks, but when hot, nothing or just the very faintest visible spark. Do you think this could be the low-speed stator winding or the CDI unit? Any advice for testing both would be greatly appreciated, as well as advice for replacing the units with modern replacements. (They don’t seem to be available any more, except used ones on eBay which could be just as problematic). Many thanks.
Charlie Watt/via email

A: This ignition system has not aged well. There are a few tests you can do to help pinpoint the failure origin, and rather than rehashing them here, I’m going to refer you to Motofaction, which has a detailed troubleshooting guide for both the CDI and transistor ignition systems. If, after troubleshooting, you find the stator to be the problem, Rick’s Motorsport Electrics sells a replacement CDI stator.

Oil capacity

Q: My name is Doug Bottcher and I have just bought a 1966 MV Agusta Germano 49cc pedal start moped for my wife. It has been in static display in a collection for several years. My intention is to put this bike back into service. It has spark and good compression. It has a very small Dell’Orto carb and should be an easy fix to put back on the road. The gearbox has been drained of oil. My question is would you have any idea of the correct oil capacity for the gearbox/clutch. Any assistance you can give would be greatly appreciated. I am a Bultaco guy and have no knowledge of Italian bikes. Thank you.

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